After losing her son to electrocution, Bihar's Ladli Khatoon earns Rs 1 lakh from solar irrigation
17 hospitalised in Amethi after consuming food at fair
Digital Desk | Amethi, Oct 29 (IANS) In what appears to be a case of food poisoning, around 102 people fell ill after eating 'khasta' (junk) food at a fair in Uttar Pradesh's Amethi district, with 17 of them, including children, requiring hospitalisation. The incident was reported in Kotwa village of Amethi district, where around 102 people reportedly fell sick after eating 'khasta' food at a fair, triggering panic in the area. As people complained of vomiting and diarrhea, a team from the state government's health department rushed to the village. Later, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) also reached the spot and personally supervised the medical examination and treatment of those affected. During the inspection, 39 children and 63 adults were found to be ill. Considering the seriousness of their condition, 17 people, including 10 children and 7 adults, were referred to the State Medical College in Amethi's Tiloi for treatment. According to the CMO, the health department team reached the village following a complaint from the village head and is investigating the matter. He said the situation is now under control. Last month, a similar incident was reported from Patna in Bihar, where more than three dozen students reportedly fell ill with symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, fever and weakness at Munger Engineering College. The affected students were taken to the Sadar Hospital in the area by ambulances arranged by the college administration. After receiving first aid and medical attention, most of them were discharged and returned to the hostel. An assistant professor and some college staff members were also reportedly unwell. Food poisoning was suspected as a possible cause. According to reports, prasad prepared at the college for Vishwakarma Puja was served a day before. Students, professors and other staff members consumed the offering. While some students reportedly developed symptoms on the same day, a larger number began complaining of vomiting and diarrhea a day later. Some also reported fever and weakness. After receiving information that several hostel residents had fallen ill around the same time, the college administration acted promptly and arranged for the affected students to be taken to Sadar Hospital. Following treatment and first aid, their condition improved, and they were sent back to the college hostel.
The Delhi High Court on Thursday sought a response from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on a plea filed by former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav challenging the trial court
People rewarded my work: Congress' Abhijit Wanjari on Nagpur Graduates' win
Digital Desk | Nagpur, Oct 29 (IANS) Abhijit Govindrao Wanjari, the Congress candidate who secured the party's sole victory in the MLC elections, said the mandate he received from voters in the Nagpur Graduates' constituency reflected the development work he had undertaken during his previous term. Wanjari defeated his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rival, Sudhakar Kohle, by a margin of 3,271 votes after a prolonged counting process in the Nagpur Graduates' constituency, a region widely regarded as a stronghold of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Speaking to IANS after his victory, Wanjari said he had been confident of winning the election because of the work he had carried out over the past six years and the support he believed he enjoyed among voters. He also credited the Congress and its allies for working alongside him during the campaign. I was very confident about my win. I have done significant work in the past six years, so I knew that the voters were with me. Our party and allies worked with me. People have rewarded me for the development work carried out by us, Wanjari said. Just gathering a crowd does not bring votes. However, we have worked for the public, for development, and on that basis, I contested this election and subsequently won, he added. Wanjari also expressed concern over the growing doubts surrounding Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), saying that some voters had begun questioning whether their votes were being counted in favour of the candidates they had chosen. People have now started doubting the EVMs. They feel that their votes are going to the wrong person. That is why the elections should be held through ballot papers. This practice has been followed by several developed nations too, Wanjari said. With this win, the Congress opened its account in the elections held for 28 Legislative Council seats across four states -- Karnataka, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. The outcome assumes particular significance as Nagpur is the home city of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and also falls within the Lok Sabha constituency represented by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. Nagpur is also the national headquarters of the RSS, an organisation with a strong ideological and organisational presence in the region. Reacting to his defeat, BJP candidate Sudhakar Kohle maintained that his party had performed well when the overall results of the MLC elections were taken into account. He defended the BJP's campaign, saying that the party's senior leadership, including the Chief Minister, had actively participated in the election process. When we look at the bigger picture, the BJP has won these elections. There was no shortcoming in the election campaign. Our Chief Minister and other top leaders campaigned by going to every booth. I thank them for this, Kohle told IANS.
MLC poll results show people disillusioned with BJP, claim Opposition leaders
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) Opposition leaders on Thursday claimed that the results of the Legislative Council elections in four states reflected growing public disillusionment with the BJP, pointing to the Samajwadi Party's gains in Uttar Pradesh and the Congress-led Maha Vikas Aghadi's victory in three of the five seats in Maharashtra. Speaking to IANS, Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad claimed the results had sent a message that the BJP government's days were numbered, alleging that its policies had troubled every section of society, including the youth, farmers and business community. He also claimed that people believed the election process had been conducted forcefully. The MLC election results send a message that the days of the BJP government are numbered. It will remain in power only until the elections are declared, as every section of society is troubled by its policies, actions and decisions, he said. Samajwadi Party Spokesperson Ashutosh Verma said the party had secured decisive victories in five of the 11 seats in Uttar Pradesh, arguing that its winning margins demonstrated organisational preparedness. On the question of alliances, he said the party would follow the approach adopted in the 2024 elections and support candidates contesting their respective seats. In places where some people fail to get even 2,000 votes, the Samajwadi Party is winning by margins of 17,00018,000 votes. This shows Samajwadi Partys preparation, he said About the coalition, we will follow the same pattern of 2024. This is for sure that we want people to win seats they fight on. This is Akhilesh Yadavs motto too, he added. Congress MP Mallu Ravi congratulated voters in Nagpur for electing the party's candidate and pointed to the victory in the RSS headquarters as a significant political development. He also expressed confidence that the Congress would win more seats in the coming general elections. I want to tell PM (Modi) and HM (Shah) that Congress is getting elected in Nagpur which is the headquarters of the RSS. Similarly, another important constituency is the PM's constituency which the BJP lost, he said. Both were won by the Congress and its allies. That shows that in the coming general elections Congress is going to win, he added. Meanwhile, RJD MLA Bhai Virendra called for introspection among Opposition parties, saying the Congress, as the senior partner, should have taken the initiative to resolve differences through dialogue. He alleged that the party had appeared inclined to dictate terms rather than take regional parties and smaller allies along. Congress leads the Opposition at the Centre, while we are a major party in Bihar and hold the Leader of Oppositions post. It is Congress responsibility to coordinate with regional parties and smaller allies across states, he said. NCP(SP) National Spokesperson Clyde Crasto described the Maharashtra results as encouraging, saying his party had won two seats and the Congress one, giving the MVA three of the five seats. He said the outcome was disappointing for the ruling alliance despite its governments at the Centre and in the state. The elections to 28 Legislative Council seats were held across Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Karnataka on October 23, with counting beginning on October 27.
Jharkhand Police Arrests Man Posing as Officer for Sexual Assault in Ranchi Case
A man impersonating a police officer was arrested in Bihar for sexually assaulting a woman in Ranchi after she filed a complaint. Jharkhand Police Arrests Man Posing as Officer for Sexual Assault in Ranchi Case
NDA Leaders Celebrate MLC Election Victory, Urge Opposition to Reflect on Losses
NDA leaders in Bihar express joy over MLC election results, urging the opposition to reflect on their performance and accept the publics mandate. NDA Leaders Celebrate MLC Election Victory, Urge Opposition to Reflect on Losses
Congress should introspect after MLC poll results, says JD(U), BJP leaders
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) The Janata Dal (United) and the BJP on Thursday criticised the Congress party over its performance in the recent Legislative Council elections, saying the party and its INDIA bloc allies should respond to the questions raised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the use of ballot papers. The remarks came after PM Modi took a swipe at Congress over the results of the Legislative Council elections held across 28 constituencies in four states using ballot papers. In a post on X on Wednesday, the Prime Minister said, MLC elections in 28 seats across 4 big states - Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Karnataka. Elections held using ballot papers. Guess how many seats Congress won. Speaking to IANS, JD(U) national spokesperson Rajiv Ranjan said Congress and its INDIA bloc allies should respond to the points raised by the Prime Minister. Congress and its INDIA bloc allies should respond to the points raised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his tweet. Congress has repeatedly demanded voting through ballot papers instead of EVMs. However, in elections held across 28 constituencies for the Legislative Councils in four states, Congress failed to achieve success anywhere except the Nagpur Graduates' constituency. In Karnataka, where Congress is in power, the BJP and JD(S) together won all four seats contested, he said. Ranjan further said Congress had failed to open its account in Uttar Pradesh ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections and had suffered a setback in Bihar, where it previously had one MLC. This clearly shows that instead of demanding elections through ballot papers or other methods, Congress and Rahul Gandhi should reconsider the party's strategy on public issues. Rahul Gandhi should introspect and atone for bringing Congress to such a poor state, he added. BJP MP Yogender Chandoliya also criticised the Congress for repeatedly questioning the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Congress had been demanding for a long time that votes should not be cast using EVMs, even though EVMs were introduced during the Congress government's tenure in Uttar Pradesh. Our view is that Congress managed to win one seat, opening its account with great difficulty. Now, will Rahul Gandhi accept this outcome or not? he said. Chandoliya alleged that Congress would once again raise questions about the election results, and that the party had developed a habit of making allegations over various issues. Getting even one seat seems like a huge achievement for Congress, as making allegations on everything has become a habit for them. Otherwise, the results across the country are not going to be in their favour, whether they talk about EVMs, SIR or ballot papers, he added. The BJP won 13 of the 28 Legislative Council seats contested across Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Karnataka, while Congress secured only one seat.
Blackmail Suicide: Two Arrested In Pune IT Employee Case
Two men from Bihar have been arrested for allegedly blackmailing a 22-year-old IT employee in Pune through fake social media accounts, extorting Rs 1.77 lakh, and driving him to suicide. The victim's father lodged a complaint, leading to the arrests and seizure of electronic devices. Police are searching for other suspects involved in the case.
A new gold standard: Anand Mahindra reacts as Bihar Museum ranks 9th among the worlds best museums
Bihar Museum in Patna has ranked ninth globally and first in Asia in The Worlds 100 Best Museums 2026, published by Worth a Journey. Anand Mahindra called the recognition a new gold standard, crediting former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and the Bihar government. He hopes the achievement sparks a museum renaissance across India.
BJP Bihar state president Sanjay Saraogi on Thursday targeted the Congress following the MLC election results, saying that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had exposed the party's duplicitous character and questioning its claims over the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs). Reacting to the Prime Minister's tweet on the election results, Saraogi told ANI that the elections were conducted using ballot papers, with votes cast by educated citizens, socially conscious individuals and teachers, yet the Congress faced a defeat. The Prime Minister has rightly exposed the dark truth behind the Congress party's duplicitous character and its crocodile tears. These elections were conducted using ballot papers, with votes cast by educated citizens, socially conscious individuals and teachers. Yet, even in this format, the Congress faced a complete rout, Saraogi said. He further claimed that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's political base had weakened and alleged that the public had lost faith in...
Cong no longer relevant, should stop politicising every issue: BJP MP on MLC election results
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal on Thursday said that the results of the Legislative Council elections had made it clear that the Congress is no longer relevant in Indian politics, adding that the party should introspect and stop politicising every issue. His remarks came a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a swipe at the Congress over the results of the Legislative Council elections held across four states using ballot papers. Speaking to IANS, Khandelwal said, This has made it clear that the Congress is no longer relevant in politics. Earlier, it used to be said that EVMs were hacked, and the blame was pinned on the Election Commission. Then allegations of vote theft were made, which had no basis. Now, the Congress was demanding elections through ballot papers, and the MLC elections were held using the same ballot papers. The Congress has now been wiped out, and the party should introspect and realise that there should not be politics over every issue. People give a befitting reply when the time comes and deliver their verdict, he added. Backing Union Home Minister Amit Shah's statement regarding the MLC election results, the BJP MP said that demanding resignations had become a habit of the opposition parties. What the Home Minister said is right because demanding resignations has become a habit for them. They demand resignations over every small or big issue, turn every matter into a controversy and call for resignations. So, when will they resign over the ballot box? What Home Minister Amit Shah said is completely right, Khandelwal said. He further alleged that Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, and other opposition leaders would avoid taking responsibility for the election results. Now, Rahul Gandhi and all the opposition parties will run away, hiding their faces, but the public is watching all of this, he added. Khandelwal also reacted to Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav's remarks targeting the BJP over the Varanasi Legislative Council election results and said that the SP chief was also gradually losing his relevance in politics. Akhilesh Yadav, too, like other parties, is gradually losing his relevance. Consequently, while he used to speak with some sense occasionally in the past, he is now making baseless statements that have no foundation, Khandelwal said. The BJP won 13 of the 28 Legislative Council seats contested across Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Karnataka.
MLC poll results: Cong stuns BJP in Maha; NDA wins 16 seats
The NDA alliance secured 16 out of 28 legislative council seats across four states, while the Congress managed to win only one seat. The Samajwadi Party made significant gains in Uttar Pradesh, and the Jan Suraaj Party opened its account in Bihar. The results show mixed fortunes for major parties, with notable setbacks for the BJP in Nagpur and the Congress in Karnataka.
47% of the targeted area covered under Indias oil palm expansion this fiscal
Bihar joining the Oil Palm mission will help achieve the fiscal years target of 1.19 lakh hectares
Weather patterns are expected to take a turn across various parts of India on Thursday. Regions might experience thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and strong winds, while others could stay clear. Key cities such as Delhi, Noida, and Gurgaon should anticipate fluctuating weather. Coastal Andhra Pradesh is expected to face challenges due to Cyclone Arnab, contributing to the unstable conditions.
Bihar Cabinet approves MOU between WRD & NIH, Roorkee for Flood Plain Zone Delineation Study
Cabinet approves 115 acres of land for a sugar mill and 151.58 acres for other industries. 12 crore approved for Bihar State Games 2026. Nod for underground road corridor in Patna.
Bihar MLC polls: Upper caste candidates dominate election results
The Opposition Congress party which had put up its candidates on five seats has failed to win even a single seat in the elections
Bihar MLC polls: 5 sitting MLCs lose, JSP wins first seat
Biennial polls for eight Bihar Legislative Council seats resulted in significant upsets, with five sitting MLCs, including from BJP and Congress, losing. The fledgling Jan Suraaj Party secured its first victory. BJP won three seats, Independents two, while RJD, Jan Suraaj, and JD(U) each secured one. The results highlighted infighting within the INDIA bloc and a strong performance by new political forces.
Aisshpra Gems & Jewels Marks Major Expansion with Four New Showrooms in One Day
Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], October 28: Aisshpra Gems & Jewels, a jewellery retail brand with a legacy dating back to 1940, has expanded its retail presence by opening four new showrooms in a single day across Bahraich, Bettiah, Lucknow and Mirzapur. With these launches, the company's store network has grown from 16 to 20 stores. It aims to expand this network to 30 stores by March 2028, strengthening its presence across Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Cyclone Arnab weakened after making landfall on the Andhra Pradesh coast and is expected to affect weather conditions. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecasted in various states including Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. Thunderstorms, hailstorms, lightning, and strong winds are likely across several regions of India. The India Meteorological Department is monitoring the cyclone's movement and updates accordingly. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and prepared for harsh weather.
Cyclone Arnab Weakens, IMD Chief Warns Of Flooding Risk | Exclusive
In an exclusive interview with NDTV, IMD Director General Dr Mrutyunjay Mohapatra explains Cyclone Arnab's movement, its landfall and its weakening from a very severe to a severe cyclonic storm. Andhra Pradesh has been the worst affected, followed by Odisha. The IMD chief warns that risks will persist while wind speeds remain high, advises fishermen to stay away from the sea and urges people in affected areas to remain indoors unless necessary. Rainfall warnings have also been issued for Uttar Pradesh and Bihar for October 29 and 30, with heavy rain posing a risk of localised flooding and inundation in low-lying areas. Watch the exclusive interview for the latest on Cyclone Arnab and the IMD's warnings.
Council poll wins cheer NDA, Neerajs victory lifts JD(U) spirits
Council poll results offer relief to NDA but expose organisational weaknesses
Govt clears MSME policy, targets to create 1-cr entrepreneurial families
State liable to pay ex gratia if cop dies of cardiac arrest while on duty: HC
HC refuses to intervene in VC recruitment
CUSB VC urges students to turn ideas into market-ready innovations
Madhubani traffic DSP arrested for taking bribe
Govt plans to develop signature roads in all cities: Minister
How many did Congress win?: HM Amit Shah blasts Rahul Gandhi over MLC poll results
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 28 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah took a swipe at the Congress party for failing to win a single seat in the biennial Legislative Council (MLC) elections across four states with a social media post on Wednesday. Taking to X, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader wrote in Hindi, which, roughly translated, means How many out of 28 did the Congress win 0, adding a barb, resign, Ballot Box in an apparent reference to the point that these polls were not held using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) that the Congress has repeatedly been alleging as being manipulated. The accompanying illustration features what appears to be the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, sitting and staring at the results. Though MLC results do not determine future Parliamentary or Assembly poll outcomes, they do reflect political influence among specific sections of the society. The MLC elections were limited franchise contests involving graduates and teachers rather than the broader electorate. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Karnataka, with Janata Dal (Secular) a constituent, secured a clear 4-0 sweep in the state, leaving the ruling Congress in a quandary. In Uttar Pradesh, the principal contest was between the BJP and the Samajwadi Party (SP), where the former secured victories in multiple constituencies, while the latter won key teachers seats and remained the primary Opposition force. Bihar results reflected a fragmented Opposition landscape, with the BJP and its ally Janata Dal (United) winning several seats, the RJD registering a victory, JSP opening its account, and independents securing wins. The trend continued to be reflected in Maharashtra as well, with the Congress drawing a blank everywhere. The results come amidst the Congress partys renewed thrust at launching Rahul Gandhi in a new, aggressive leadership role and as the face of a united Opposition.
'Guess how many seats Congress won?: PM Modi mocks Rahul Gandhi's party
In a post on X, PM Modi said, MLC elections in 28 seats across four big states Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Karnataka. Elections were held using ballot papers. Guess how many seats Congress won
CM flags off train carrying 1,100 from Bihars Maoist-free districts to Statue of Unity
ED grills IAS officer, summons more officials in tender scam probe
People rejected anarchistic politics: Nitin Nabin on Congs zero score in MLC polls
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 28 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party national president Nitin Nabin on Wednesday claimed that the Congress had scored zero on ballot papers in the recent MLC elections held in Karnataka, Maharashtra, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, asserting that the public was repeatedly rejecting what he termed the partys anarchistic politics. In a post on X, Nabin said the results showed that whether through EVMs or ballot papers, the peoples trust and blessings remained firmly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Congresss score on ballot papers too is 0 in the MLC elections of Karnataka, Maharashtra, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh! The public is repeatedly rejecting Congresss anarchistic politics outright. Be it EVM or ballot, the publics trust and blessings are only with the honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendramodi ji, he wrote. The BJP presidents remarks come in the backdrop of the oppositions sustained campaign questioning the integrity of electronic voting machines and alleging large-scale electoral irregularities. By highlighting the Congresss poor performance even in elections conducted through the traditional ballot system, Nabin sought to counter the oppositions narrative against EVMs. Party leaders interpreted the results as a clear endorsement of the Modi governments policies and a rejection of the Congresss political approach. They argued that the outcomes in the four states reflected the growing disconnect between the Congress and the electorate. Nabins statement is part of the BJPs broader strategy to project the Prime Ministers continued popularity and to dismiss opposition claims of electoral manipulation. The party has maintained that the Congress is raising the EVM issue only to cover up its own organisational and political failures. The MLC elections in the four states had been keenly watched as indicators of the relative strengths of the major political parties. According to the BJP, the Congresss inability to open its account in these contests underscores the publics preference for the ruling dispensation at the Centre. As political temperatures rise ahead of upcoming assembly and other elections, both the BJP and the Congress are expected to intensify their campaigns around issues of electoral integrity, governance and public trust. Nabins post indicates that the BJP will continue to project recent electoral outcomes as a vote of confidence in Prime Minister Modis leadership.
World Stroke Day: More young people falling prey to stroke in Bihar: Doctors
No slogans, just look at results: Hardik Patels dig at Congress over MLC results
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 28 (IANS) Gujarat BJP MLA Hardik Patel on Wednesday took a swipe at the Congress over its performance in Legislative Council elections across four states, highlighting that the polls were conducted using ballot papers, but the party failed to win a single seat. In a post on social media platform X, Patel wrote: 4 major states. 28 MLC seats. Elections conducted using ballot papers! Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Karnataka. Now, take a guess: how many of these 28 seats did Congress actually win? No slogans. No excuses. Just look at the results! The post came amid counting and the declaration of results for 28 Legislative Council seats across the four states. The Congress failed to secure a victory in the election cycle, with the results providing ammunition for the BJP to question the Opposition partys arguments in favour of ballot papers amid its allegations concerning electronic voting machines (EVMs). The outcome in Karnataka was a particular setback for the Congress, which is in power in the state. The BJP-Janata Dal (Secular) alliance swept the four Legislative Council seats there, including the Bengaluru Teachers constituency previously held by the Congress. In Uttar Pradesh, the BJP won four seats, and the Samajwadi Party secured two, while counting continued in other constituencies. Bihar also witnessed setbacks for established parties. Prashant Kishors Jan Suraaj Party won its first Legislative Council seat after its candidate Suresh Rai defeated former Bihar Congress president Madan Mohan Jha in the Darbhanga Teachers constituency. The Rashtriya Janata Dal also wrested the Patna Teachers seat from five-term BJP MLC Nawal Kishore Yadav. Counting for other constituencies was continuing, while results in Maharashtra were still emerging. Patels intervention carries an added political dimension given his own journey from being a prominent critic of the BJP to becoming one of its legislators in Gujarat. He rose to prominence in 2015 as the face of the Patidar reservation agitation, which challenged the then BJP-led state government. The movement made him a significant political figure ahead of the 2017 Gujarat Assembly elections, when the Congress improved its performance against the BJP. Patel joined the Congress in March 2019 and was appointed working president of the Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee in July 2020. However, differences with the party leadership grew, and he resigned from the Congress on May 18, 2022, criticising its functioning and leadership. He formally joined the BJP on June 2, 2022, in Gandhinagar, subsequently receiving the partys ticket from Viramgam for the Gujarat Assembly elections. Patel won the seat in December 2022, defeating Aam Aadmi Party candidate Amarsinh Thakor by more than 51,000 votes, and entered the Assembly as a BJP MLA. His latest post continues his criticism of his former party, using the ballot-paper results to challenge the Congresss political messaging on electoral processes.
State govt to expand opportunities for young and folk artists: Minister
Karwa Chauth gains popularity among women in Bihar
MoS Somanna sees 2028 message in NDAs council poll sweep
Union Minister of State V Somanna highlighted the Congress party's failure in recent Legislative Council elections across multiple states. He pointed out that Congress did not secure any seats in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Bihar, or Uttar Pradesh. Somanna used these results to challenge Congress's claims regarding electronic voting machines and alleged electoral fraud. The outcomes are perceived as a negative reflection on the Congress government in Karnataka.
Gaya airport sees surge in international flight operations
Bapu Tower, Intach host Patna Kalam revival workshop
Man found dead in Samastipur orchard, police probe liquor angle
Four injured as petrol bottle sparks fire at chicken shop in Muzaffarpur
Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Medical Sciences & Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital (ABVIMS & RML Hospital) has released the official notification for 2 Consultant (Legal) posts. Selection will be carried out through a Walk-in Interview scheduled on 16 November 2026 at Room No-06, Old Building, Dr. RML Hospital, New Delhi. Candidates should report at 11:00 AM. For complete details, candidates can visit rmlh.nic.in.
Can you punish laxity by forfeiting the right to vote forever, Supreme Court asks ECI
Form 6 is cast in stone and cannot be changed, says SC, adding that the Bihar judgment is not a binding precedent and that it allowed logical discrepancy in West Bengal as an interim arrangement; top court tells ECI to extend Delhi SIR
Can you punish laxity by forfeiting the right to vote forever, SC asks EC
Form 6 is cast in stone' and cannot be changed. The Bihar judgment is not a binding precedent. Allowed logical discrepancy in West Bengal as an interim arrangement. Dont stick to timelines in Delhi SIR.
Rare records offer a journey through Bihars history, heritage and traditions
Congress faces defeat under both ballot and EVM systems, says Bihar CM
Accuses Congress of undermining democracy over its campaign against electoral roll revision
PM Modi mocks Congress for failing to win MLC elections across four states using ballot papers
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has criticised the Congress party for not winning any seats in recent elections. Despite their demands for ballot papers, Congress failed to secure positions in the Legislative Council. The elections took place in four major states, including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, and Karnataka. BJP gained five seats in Uttar Pradesh alone, while Congress did not win any.
PM Modi Mocks Cong's Poor MLC Poll Show Despite Use of Paper Ballots
Elections to the six teachers' and five graduates' constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, four each in Bihar, two each in Karnataka, and three graduates' and two teachers' constituencies in Maharashtra were held on October 23.
SC says legality of EC's 'logical discrepancy' checks in SIR remains undecided
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana said its earlier decision allowing the Election Commission to use the category in West Bengal was only an interim measure. It also clarified that the courts ruling on the SIR exercise in Bihar had not settled every legal question surrounding the revision process.
MLC results show Rahul Gandhi has little reason to celebrate as face of anti-BJP bloc
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 28 (IANS) The Congress partys ambitious aim of launching Rahul Gandhi in a new, aggressive leadership role and as the face of a united Opposition has suffered a serious setback after failing to win a single seat in the biennial Legislative Council (MLC) elections across four states Bihar, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. Though the general public as a whole is not directly involved in choosing MLC representatives, specific sections of society do share their preferences. These elections were limited franchise contests involving graduates and teachers rather than the broader electorate, yet are often viewed as indicators of organisational strength, cadre mobilisation and political influence among politically aware sections. And on all three counts, the Congress has little reason to celebrate. The outcome of achieving a zero across all 28 seats contested would thus serve as a rough bump on its road to political recovery, with warning bells sounding particularly loudly in Karnataka where it is in power. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Karnataka, with Janata Dal (Secular) a constituent, secured a clear 4-0 sweep in the state, leaving the ruling Congress in a quandary. The BJP retained the North-East Teachers, South-East Graduates and West Graduates constituencies, while the JD(S) captured the Bengaluru Teachers' seat from the Congress. This outcome is especially significant since the party had hoped to project its state government as a model for a broader national resurgence. Instead, the results suggest that even where Congress holds power, regional dynamics and opposition alliances remain capable of limiting its influence. JD(S), though diminished in Assembly politics, demonstrated that regional players continue to possess pockets of durable support. Results elsewhere also delivered an uncomfortable political message for the Congress. Far from signalling a revival of the party's mass appeal, the elections have underlined its continued inability to build up anti-BJP sentiment or establish itself as the undisputed leader of a united Opposition. In Uttar Pradesh, the principal contest was between the BJP and the Samajwadi Party (SP), where the former secured victories in multiple constituencies, while the latter won key teachers seats and remained the primary Opposition force. Bihar offered a similar sobering picture, with the Congress suffering a symbolic defeat in Darbhanga Teachers' constituency, where Jan Suraaj Party (JSP) candidate Suresh Prasad Rai defeated sitting Congress MLC Madan Mohan Jha. The states overall results reflected a fragmented Opposition landscape, with the BJP and its ally Janata Dal (United) winning several seats, the RJD registering a victory, JSP opening its account, and independents securing wins. Thus, Tejashwi Yadav's RJD continues to command the central anti-BJP role in the state, while Prashant Kishors JSP is seen attempting to build an alternative space, and Congress increasingly appearing squeezed between stronger regional actors. In Maharashtra, counting trends indicated a mixed battle between the ruling Mahayuti alliance and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), with candidates from both camps leading in different constituencies. Yet here too, the dominant opposition faces were regional leaders from the Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP (Sharad Pawar) camps rather than the Congress. The results reinforce a reality that has come to define Opposition politics of late: regional satraps continue to carry greater electoral weight than the grand old party of India in most states. Though MLC results do not determine future Assembly or Lok Sabha outcomes, they do reflect the current balance of political influence. And that balance again suggests that India's opposition space remains decentralised, state-driven and heavily dependent on regional leaders. For the BJP, these elections provided evidence that Congress national narrative is yet to translate into strength on the ground. For the Opposition, the Congress may still be an essential component of any anti-BJP coalition, but these elections indicate Rahul Gandhi is far from becoming the blocs unquestioned leader.
PM Modi Mocks Opposition as Congress Draws a Blank in Ballot-Paper MLC Polls Across Four States
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday launched a sharp political attack against the Congress party following its dismal performance in the biennial Legislative Council (MLC) elections held across four statesUttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, and Karnataka. Highlighting that the MLC polls were conducted using paper ballotsa primary demand of opposition parties campaigning against Electronic Voting Machines [] The post PM Modi Mocks Opposition as Congress Draws a Blank in Ballot-Paper MLC Polls Across Four States appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Delhi is moving closer to launching direct inter-state bus services to Bihar ahead of the Chhath Puja, offering a new travel option for passengers heading home for the celebrations. The Delhi Transport Department has forwarded...
PM Modi Takes Dig At Congress, Asks:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a dig at Congress on Wednesday, highlighting when the voting was conducted using ballot papers the Congress failed to win a seat in the Legislative Council elections across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra and Karnataka. In a
Woman Shot In Vaishali, Police Probe
A married woman sustained a gunshot injury in Bihar's Vaishali district on Wednesday. Police are investigating conflicting accounts from her family regarding the incident's location and circumstances, as the victim is currently unable to give a statement.
Bihar MLC polls: Jan Suraaj Party opens account, JD(U)'s Neeraj Kumar 'wins' Patna Graduates seat
In the Patna Graduates constituency, JD(U)'s Neeraj Kumar has defeated the RJD candidate, though official results for the seat are yet to be declared
PM Modi taunts Congress for dismal show in MLC polls despite use of paper ballots
MLC elections in 28 seats across 4 big States Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Karnataka. Elections were held using ballot papers. Guess how many seats Congress won? PM Modi said in a post on 'X'
PM Modi taunts Congress for dismal show in MLC polls despite use of paper ballots
MLC elections in 28 seats across 4 big States Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Karnataka. Elections were held using ballot papers. Guess how many seats Congress won? PM Modi said in a post on 'X'
Congress has history of yielding to external pressure, putting out false narratives: Shringla
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 28 (IANS) Former Foreign Secretary and Rajya Sabha MP, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, on Wednesday severely condemned Congress party for selectively portraying his recent conversation with former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and providing a false narrative to mislead the people of India. Shringla held a wide-ranging discussion with Rudd, a leading expert on foreign policy, earlier this month on issues ranging from Asia's geopolitical future, India's national and international priorities to relations with key partners. At the event organised by the Asia Society Policy Institute in New Delhi, the BJP MP, also India's former Ambassador to the United States, spotlighted that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Indias foreign policy is guided by strategic autonomy and a nation-first approach. However, he alleged that the very, very positive conversation which was greatly appreciated by domestic and international audiences, was selectively portrayed by the Congress party to convey a false impression at the public level. During the conversation with Dr. Rudd, the issue of possible US sanctions against India for the purchase of Russian oil came up. And to place matters in perspective, I spoke about the fact that the US had in 2019, stopped exemptions that it had carved out for a few countries like India and China, for the purchase of Iranian oil. And there was a similar situation with regard to Venezuela. And then we spoke about the current context to the context of Russia. And, at that time, I pointed out that it was the energy security of one and a half billion people that was of paramount importance to the government, the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji. And, I said that all decisions that were taken in this regard, would be based on national interest and a nation first approach. This has been the policy since 2014, when Prime Minister Modi was voted into office, and will continue to remain the policy for the government, Shringla posted on X Wednesday. However, unfortunately, this entire conversation was selectively portrayed by the Congress party to provide a false narrative that is being sold to mislead the public. And my advice to Congress stooges who put all this out is to stop using false narratives, whether this is to portray, any situation in our country, when you cannot win in a free and fair democracy, you know, a loser in democracy can never be a winner with false narratives, he added. Shrigla stated that, during the conversation with Rudd, he had made it clear that Indias energy security and national interest will always come first. He then went on to say that a party that has a history of yielding to external pressure on matters of vital national interest has little ground to question Indias commitment to strategic autonomy. Let me remind everybody that this is the same Congress party that halted India's missile and nuclear programme in 1994, under US pressure, the then President US President Bill Clinton had interceded and the Congress party stopped. And this is also the party that abruptly cancelled planned nuclear tests that we were going to undertake in December 1995, again under US pressure. And it took the BJP's first Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji to undertake these nuclear tests in 1998 and make India the proud and responsible nuclear power we are today, Shringla mentioned. The Rajya Sabha MP also cited the innumerable and notable instances where the Congress party succumbed to US pressure on issues of vital interest, including the most stark and illustrative 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. I remember that the expectation of the public level was that the government will do something to ensure that there is retaliation for what was possibly one of the worst terrorist attacks that the world had ever experienced, comparable even to 9-11, other attacks in other parts of the world. However, the Congress party didn't do anything. And there are no guesses as to why US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice paid a visit to Delhi and asked the government not to undertake any military response. And, the UPA government obeyed. This was a national shame that we haven't gotten over even today. Now contrast this to the bold response of Prime Minister Modi in response, I mean, in dealing with Pakistani terrorist provocations. Highlighting that in a democracy, political arguments must be built on facts, not false narratives, Shringla mentioned that a party that has consistently succumbed to external pressure on vital issues of national interest should not be making allegations of this nature. Yet, this is the same party that today continuously puts out false narratives, whether on the issue of Arunachal Pradesh involving our armed forces, or the SIR, revealing its political bankruptcy, and disclosing its pathetic inability to win the people's ballot. Please stop misleading the people of India. This is my request to the Congress party. Stop misleading the people of India. Enough is enough, he concluded. /as
'Guess how many seats Congress won?': PM Modi's swipe at party's performance in MLC polls
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 28 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday took a swipe at the Congress over its dismal performance in the recently held Legislative Council polls across four states, despite the use of ballot papers in the polling process. The Congress has drawn a blank in three states and also remains out of the reckoning in Maharashtra, where the counting is reportedly underway for five seats. In a post on social media platform 'X', Prime Minister Modi said, MLC elections in 28 seats across 4 big states - Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Karnataka. Elections held using ballot papers. Guess how many seats Congress won? PM Modi remarked. This comes amid the Opposition's demand for Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar's resignation amid allegations of irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The MLC polls results assumes significance as the INDIA Bloc prepares to hold a mega rally against the vote theft allegations at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan on November 1, despite strong protests from the ruling NDA, traders and the Sikh community as the date is linked to the 1984 riots. Earlier in the day, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) also remarked that the Congress failed to make an impact in the Legislative Council elections across four states despite ballot papers being used to conduct the polling, while accusing Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, of making false allegations against the country's electoral process. Addressing a press conference, BJP MP Sudhanshu Trivedi said: Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party, who have created a storm of false claims about Indias electoral process, have seen their aspirations for anarchy shattered by the results of the MLC elections...the Congress party has so far remained at zero. It is now almost clear that the Congress party has failed to make its presence felt in these elections. He added: These elections were conducted using ballot boxes and ballot papers, yet the Congress failed to establish its presence. Echoing similar view, Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi also took a jibe at the Congress party on Wednesday. Whether it is ballot paper or the Electronic Voting Machines, the outcome for the Congress party remains the same, Joshi said, taking potshots at the Grand Old Partys zero show in the MLC elections. Meanwhile, the Samajwadi Party (SP) emerged victorious in the Agra Teacher's seat in Uttar Pradesh, while the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won the Patna Teachers constituency in the biennial elections to the Bihar Legislative Council.
Ballot papers, zero seats: Congress MLC rout raises hard questions
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 28 (IANS) Twenty-eight MLC seats went to the polls through ballot papers, yet the Congress failed to win a single seat, raising fresh and hard questions about the partys electoral credibility and organisational strength. The outcome has also handed the BJP a potent political counter to Congress persistent allegations against Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). The setback is particularly striking in Karnataka, where the Congress lost all four MLC contests it fought, including the seat of a sitting member. The defeat has raised uncomfortable questions about the partys ability to mobilise its support base despite being in power in the state. The broader MLC elections across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra and Karnataka have produced results that are nothing short of a major jolt to Congress ahead of the proposed November 1 rally of the INDIA bloc against EVM and vote chori. The grand old partys inability to secure a victory has renewed questions about its organisational strength, electoral strategy and credibility among voters. Political observers argue that the Karnataka outcome is particularly damaging. Congress is in power in the state, and the elections represented an opportunity to demonstrate that its governments political influence extends beyond the Assembly. Losing all four seats, including one held by a sitting member, raises uncomfortable questions about coordination, candidate selection and the Congress ability to mobilise its support base. The BJP has seized on the results to challenge Congress repeated attempts to find fault with EVMs. The partys message is that electoral outcomes depend on public support, political credibility and organisational effectiveness, rather than the voting mechanism. The political optics are unmistakable. Congress has long demanded greater confidence in electoral processes. Its inability to convert ballot-paper contests into victories allows the BJP to turn that argument against it. The larger question is whether Congress will undertake serious organisational introspection or continue to focus primarily on alleged electoral-system flaws, says an analyst. A political observer said, Ballot papers do not guarantee victories, just as EVMs do not guarantee defeats. Ultimately, a party must win the confidence of the electorate. For Congress, the real challenge is not explaining why it lost without EVMs, but demonstrating that it can still win, the analyst added.
Bihar results: Newly elected MLC Neeraj Kumar explains 3 N advantage over rival
Digital Desk | Patna, Oct 28 (IANS) After winning the high-stakes Patna Graduate MLC seat, Janata Dal (United)s Neeraj Kumar broke down the 3 N formula before the press, explaining how it worked wonders for him in turning the electoral tide in his favour despite facing strong opposition, including from the partys own rebels. I say it again and again. N stands for Nitish Kumar ji, N stands for Nishant Kumar ji, and then N also represents Neeraj Kumar (himself). Also, my serial number was third in row; everything fell in order, he told the scribes when asked about his triumph. He also credited Nitishs son and Bihar minister Nishant Kumar for standing beside him and mobilising public opinion in his favour. Neeraj Kumar, who faced a strong challenge from Jan Suraaj candidate Anuj Singh, having gained the backing of Mokama MLA Anant Singh, emerged victorious in the recently held MLC elections, while the latter was thrown at third spot. Anant Singh had also vowed to defeat Neeraj Kumar, as he openly supported and campaigned for Jan Suraaj-supported candidate Anuj Singh, an action that eventually led to the strongmans expulsion from the JD(U). Neeraj Kumar, attributing his victory to the N factor, is not new. After filing his nomination papers also, earlier this month, the JD(U) MLC had described Nitish Kumar as the JD (U)s power centre and stated that his blessings would help him sail through. He also dismissed Anant Singh as any challenge in the MLC elections. Neeraj Kumars victory enhances his standing within the state politics while dealing a severe blow to the formidable influence of Mokama strongman Anant Singh, whose backed candidate dropped to third place. Earlier in the day, the newly elected JD(U) MLC also took a taunting jibe at the rebel MLA. Speaking to scribes after triumph, while seated in his car, Neeraj delivered a jab in local Magahi dialect: Kahan hai re Gunjan, le ja mithaiya! (Where are you, Gunjan? Take these sweets!), eliciting cheers among the crowd.
'Guess how many seats Congress won?' PM Modi mocks party over ballot-paper MLC poll performance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (October 26) took a swipe at the Congress over elections to 28 seats in the Legislative Councils across Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Karnataka, which were held using ballot papers.
HM Amit Shah to inaugurate Martyrs Memorial in Ambala on Nov 5
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 28 (IANS) Haryanas Transport Minister Anil Vij on Wednesday said that Union Home Minister Amit Shah will inaugurate the Aazadi ki Pehli Ladai ka Shaheed Smarak in Ambala Cantonment on November 5. It has been built at a cost of approximately Rs 800 crore. After the inauguration, he will address a public meeting in Gandhi Ground. It is significant to attend the rally as people will be participating in an event honouring a martyrs memorial, said the minister. The Martyrs Memorial will be opened to the public from November 6. Vij said the government has issued instructions for the visit of students from schools and educational institutions across the state to the memorial to educate them that the freedom struggle began in Ambala before Meerut in 1857. He urged people to attend the rally at Gandhi Ground in Ambala Cantonment in large numbers as it will mark the inauguration of a national-level memorial. Vij was addressing BJP office-bearers at Ambala Club in Ambala at a meeting chaired by state party President Archana Gupta to review preparations for the Martyrs Memorial programme. Minister Vij said he had been working for the construction of the Martyrs Memorial for the past 25-30 years. He said books taught that the Congress fought the Independence struggle, but when he read, he found that in 1857, before the Congress was even founded, an armed struggle for Independence was fought across India and it began in Ambala. He said documents showed that in 1857 at 9 a.m., 10 hours before the uprising in Meerut, the 60th and 5th Native Infantry regiments sounded the bugle of the freedom struggle in Ambala Cantonment. Yet history never remembered those heroes who were tied to trees and shot, or those upon whom oil mills were operated; the nation never paid tribute to those martyrs, which is painful. The martyrs of 1857 were also sons of the motherland who joined the struggle for Independence. The minister said anyone who took even one step out of their home for Independence deserves homage, whether they were a Congress member or not. Vij, who also holds the Energy portfolio, said the First War of Independence took place across the country in 1857, but no one remembered it, and no memorial existed anywhere to showcase that struggle. The minister said he stood in the Assembly several times to demand the memorials construction and that there is an official record of this. At one point, he said he even compelled the Congress government, but it did not build the memorial. However, when the BJP government came to power in 2014, it approved the construction of a national-level memorial. Vij said the complete history will be displayed in the memorial. The places where battles were fought in 1857, in Haryana, Bihar, Punjab, and elsewhere, will be presented through modern technology, showing the history of the war.
EVM or ballot papers, result same for Congress: Pralhad Joshi mocks partys zero show in MLC polls
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 28 (IANS) Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi took a swipe at the Congress party on Wednesday, over its dismal performance in the recently held Legislative Council elections. Whether it is ballot paper or the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), the outcome for the Congress party remains the same, Joshi said, taking potshots at the grand old partys zero show in the MLC elections. The results for the MLC elections 2026 have been announced for 28 seats spanning four states Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra. Congress has drawn a blank in three states and also remains out of the reckoning in Maharashtra, where the counting is reportedly underway for five seats. The ruling Mahayuti alliance and Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) are at loggerheads, but there too, the Congress seems to be on a sticky wicket. The Union Minister said that the party failed to win even a single seat out of 28 Legislative Council seats, contested across four states. Joshi said the Congress party keeps harping on vote theft and questioning democratic institutions, yet still blames the system when election results dont go in its favour. Pointing specifically to Congress-ruled Karnataka, he said that the party suffered a crushing defeat, with even its incumbent Legislative Council members failing to retain their seats. He said the party consistently raises questions over the EVMs and cries foul over alleged irregularities, but when it came to elections through ballot boxes, it too failed to register a win and suffered a humiliating defeat. The election results have rather cast doubts on the validity of the Congress partys allegations, he claimed. Notably, the MLC elections were held for 28 graduates and teachers constituencies, spread across four states. In Uttar Pradesh, 11 Legislative Council seats went to polls, comprising 5 graduates' and 6 teachers' constituencies. In Bihar, 8 Legislative Council seats included 4 graduates' constituencies and 4 teachers' constituencies, while in Maharashtra, 5 Legislative Council seats, covering three graduates' constituencies and two teachers' constituencies, went to the hustings. In Karnataka, Congress lost all four constituencies.
Railways extends travel insurance to PRS counter tickets
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Record response: 8k apply for 10 VC posts in Bihar
OPINION | MLC elections with ballot: Why zero for Congress?
Mixed results have come in the elections held for 28 MLC posts in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra and Karnataka. It is, however, surprising that Congress lost all four seats it contested in Karnataka. After Siddaramaiah was replaced by DK Shivakumar as chief minister, this was the first electoral test for the new Chief Minister. He failed.
Hyderabad: Bihar man caught with 1.8 kg ganja in Quthbullapur
Hyderabad: The Prohibition and Excise Departments District Task Force (DTF) team seized 1.80 kilogram of ganja from a Bihar native during a special operation in Hyderabads Quthbullapur. The personnel of the Prohibition and Excise DTF team jointly conducted the operation and apprehended the suspect, identified as Kuldi Prasad. During the operation, the officials recovered the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Delhi SIR: Supreme Court asks ECI to extend deadlines, simplify enrolment
While addressing the ECI in the Delhi SIR case, the top court clarified that it did not judicially review the logical discrepancy in the Bihar SIR case
Who won MLC elections in UP, Maha, Bihar, K'taka?
MLC election results 2026: The BJP, Congress, Samajwadi Party (SP), RJD and other parties are battling for seats in the Legislative Councils of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Karnataka and Maharashtra. While the BJP and its allies have secured key victories in Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh, the SP and RJD have also registered wins. Check the state-wise MLC winners list, party-wise performance and latest updates on results and counting in all four states.
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 28 (IANS) Karnataka Minister, Priyank Kharge, on Wednesday said the state government was examining whether more locations in Bengaluru and other parts of the state could be denotified as designated protest sites as per requests by some activists, while ensuring that citizens right to demonstrate peacefully was not curtailed. Speaking to reporters, Kharge said the government had met activists who called for more locations to be denotified in Bengaluru. He implied that denotifying the sites will be done so that the rights of the citizens to protest are not curtailed. He said an affidavit had been filed in the High Court by all parties, including civil rights activists, and the government would examine the matter. We have met some activists who suggested that more locations in Bengaluru and across the state should be denotified. We are looking into the matter, he said. Kharge maintained that the government was not interested in restricting citizens rights but stressed the need to balance the right to protest with the rights of other people who might be affected by demonstrations. I would like to put on record that the government is not interested in curbing citizens rights. While ensuring that people can exercise their rights, we must also consider the rights of other citizens affected by protests. It is a fine balance, and we will work to maintain it, he said. The ministers comments on protest sites come against the backdrop of controversy over the denotification of Jantar Mantar as a designated protest location in New Delhi. Opposition leaders had criticised the move, arguing that changing the venue could not diminish public anger or the demand for demonstrations. Kharge had also previously criticised the Centre over the issue, accusing the Modi government of suppressing peaceful protests and alleging that it feared the Gen Z movement by denying protesters permission to demonstrate at the designated site. The minister also launched a sharp attack on the BJP over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, alleging that the exercise favoured the ruling party at the Centre and could exclude the ones who oppose them. Kharge stated that nearly one crore people had been left out of the voter lists in the state and said the Karnataka government would examine the circumstances surrounding their exclusion. He alleged that the pre-printing of Form 7 by BJP workers, was introduced to keep certain sections of voters out of the electoral process. This SIR is a process that favours the BJP. It is very evident in West Bengal, it was very evident in Bihar, and even in Karnataka. Nearly one crore people have been left out, he said. Kharge alleged that the Form 7 issue in Chitapur pointed to a conspiracy to manipulate the electoral process. He claimed that 40 Form 7 applications submitted in the constituency were bogus and emphasised that the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO), rather than private individuals, had filed a complaint. It is absolutely a conspiracy. In Chitapur, 40 Form 7s have been given, they are all bogus. The ERO has filed a complaint, not some individuals, he said. Citing another instance of alleged irregularities, Kharge referred to Aland in Karnataka and claimed that 5,994 of the 6,018 forms examined there were fake. He also referred to 22,000 chargesheets, though further details about the cases and the nature of the chargesheets were not immediately available. We have exposed vote theft in Aland. Out of 6,018 forms, 5,994 forms are fake and 22,000 chargesheets have been filed, he said. Kharge said the government would scrutinise the voter lists and investigate how the alleged exclusions and irregularities had occurred. He also argued that the process undermined the Oppositions ability to contest elections on a level playing field.
Woman, eight-month-old son among four killed in road accident in Bihar's Chhapra
Digital Desk | Patna, Oct 28 (IANS) At least four people, including a woman and her eight-month-old baby, were killed in a collision between a speeding truck and an auto-rickshaw on NH-722 near Pahadpur village under the Garkha police station limits in Bihars Saran district. The high-impact crash, which occurred late Tuesday night, completely mangled the auto-rickshaw, trapping passengers inside and triggering chaotic scenes as local residents rushed to render aid. Hearing the screams of trapped victims, onlookers alerted local authorities and initiated initial rescue efforts. Teams from the Garkha police station and a 'Dial 112' emergency unit arrived shortly after. Due to the severe structural deformation of the auto-rickshaw, rescue personnel had to employ gas cutters to cut through the metal frame and extricate the trapped individuals. All victims were rushed to Shrinivas Medical College, where four were pronounced dead, and others were admitted for urgent medical care. The deceased have been identified as Annu Kumari (28) and her eight-month-old son, Riyansh Kumar. Annus husband, Vishal Kumar, suffered critical injuries and remains under intensive care in the ICU. A relative, Rahul Kumar, revealed that the family was returning home from Punjab after attending a wedding ceremony when the speeding truck struck their vehicle, turning a celebratory trip into tragedy. The crash also claimed the lives of cousins Ashish Kumar alias Jeetu (25) and Aman Kumar (20). The auto-rickshaw driver and his brother were also injured in the collision. The incident has plunged multiple households into deep mourning. Police have launched an investigation to track down the driver of the speeding truck and establish the exact sequence of events leading to the fatal crash. The district police had informed the family members of the deceased following the fatal accident. They have recovered the bodies and sent them to Chappra Sadar Hospital for post-mortem examinations. The post-mortem will be conducted in the presence of the family members of the deceased.
From Homemade Badi to GomatiRoots: Shital Kumari Secures Funding
Bihar's Sheetal Kumari transforms homemade badi into GomatiRoots, securing funding through YourStory's Shuru Kar initiative.
SIR Is A Process To Favour BJP: Priyank Kharge Alleges Conspiracy To Exclude Voters
Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge on Wednesday alleged that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls was aimed at favouring the BJP and keeping the opposition out of electoral contests, claiming that nearly one crore voters had been left out of the process. Kharge alleged that the exercise had raised concerns in West Bengal, Bihar and Karnataka, and said the state government would examine the exclusion of voters and the alleged bulk printing of Form 7 applications.
JD(U)s Neeraj Kumar retains Patna Graduate MLC seat, launches fierce attack on Anant Singh
Digital Desk | Patna, Oct 28 (IANS) In the most high-profile contest of the Bihar Legislative Council elections, Janata Dal (United) leader Neeraj Kumar successfully retained the Patna Graduate MLC seat, triggering widespread celebrations among supporters after an intense, round-the-clock counting process. Immediately following confirmation of his victory, Neeraj Kumar launched a sharp verbal assault on his arch-rival and Mokama MLA Anant Singh, who had aggressively campaigned against him in this election for the Jan Suraaj candidate Anuj Singh. Speaking from his vehicle amid cheering crowds, Neeraj delivered a taunting jab in the local Magahi dialect: Kahan hai re Gunjan, le ja mithaiya! (Where are you, Gunjan? Take these sweets!). The remark targeted both Anant Singh and singer Gunjan Singh, a prominent supporter of the Mokama legislator. The high-stakes election had turned into a matter of personal prestige for Neeraj Kumar. Anant Singh had openly vowed to defeat him, backing 'Jan Suraaj' supported candidate Dr. Anuj Singh, an action that led to Singhs expulsion from the JD(U). A loss would have severely damaged Neerajs standing within state politics. However, the Opposition's efforts proved insufficient, as Anuj Singh was relegated to a distant third-place finish, while the RJD candidate obtained second position. Attributing his election success to the senior NDA leadership, including Nitish Kumar, Nishant Kumar, Samrat Choudhary, Upendra Kushwaha, Jitan Ram Manjhi and Chirag Paswan, he stated that grander victory celebrations were still to come. He noted that despite immense mental pressure and relentless challenges from rivals, his supporters' trust remained intact. Taking another jab at his opponents' premature victory claims, he quipped, Ae Sanjit, ee ka bol hai re? (Hey Sanjit, what is this they are saying?). Political observers view the outcome as a major blow to Anant Singhs formidable influence in the region. Known for treating political rivalries as matters of personal honour, the Mokama strongman saw his backed candidate collapse into third place while his primary target emerged victorious, reshaping power dynamics within the constituency.
BPSC Prosecution Officer OMR Sheet 2026 - Download Link, Last Date and Objection Process
BPSC Prosecution Officer OMR Sheet 2026 is available for candidates under Advertisement No. 13/2026 from 28 October to 3 November 2026. Download the OMR sheet through the candidate Dashboard and report errors by email on or before 3 November 2026 at bpsconline.bihar.gov.in.
Video: Beggar Offers His Meal To Monk, His Response Melts Hearts
A viral video from Bihar's Mahabodhi Temple shows a roadside beggar donating his food and money to a Buddhist monk, only to receive kindness and blessings in return, touching millions online.
Bihar MLC polls: Jan Suraaj opens account, JD(U)'s Neeraj Kumar 'wins' Patna Graduates seat
The Jan Suraaj Party opened its account in the Bihar Legislative Council elections, with Suresh Prasad Rai defeating sitting Congress MLC Madan Mohan Jha by 324 votes in the Darbhanga Teachers constituency. The results also saw wins for the BJP, JD(U), RJD and an independent candidate in other constituencies, while counting continued for some seats.
Jan Suraaj Opens Account in Bihar MLC Polls, Defeats Congress Sitting MLC in Darbhanga
Suresh Prasad Rai beats Madan Mohan Jha by 324 votes in the Darbhanga Teachers seat; BJP and RJD also register wins as counting continues for other constituencies.
Bihar MLC polls: Ram Kripal Yadav says NDA setback in Teachers seat matter of concern
Digital Desk | Patna, Oct 28 (IANS) Bihar Minister Ram Kripal Yadav on Wednesday said NDA candidate Neeraj Kumar had practically won the Patna Graduate constituency in the Bihar Legislative Council elections, while expressing disappointment over Professor Nawal Kishor Yadav falling behind in the Teachers constituency. Two Legislative Council elections were underway in Patna, one for the Graduate constituency and the other for Teachers. The results of both are almost in. In the Graduate constituency, the NDA candidate, Shri Neeraj Kumar, has practically won. However, in the Teacher constituency, Professor Nawal Kishor Yadav has fallen behind. I feel this should not have happened, Ram Kripal Yadav told IANS. He highlighted Professor Nawal Kishor Yadavs five-term record of raising teachers concerns and working to resolve their problems. Nawal ji had been continuously fighting for teachers for five terms, making every possible effort to resolve their issues and firmly raising their voice from the government level up to universities. But perhaps success could not be achieved this time, even though people had elevated him up the ladder of success five times before, he said. Describing the development as a setback, the minister added, It is definitely a setback for all of us, and I consider it a setback for teachers as well. Meanwhile, Bihar Legislative Assembly Speaker Prem Kumar said the election results reflected the peoples decision in a democracy and that the NDA was leading in the eight Graduate and Teachers constituencies. In a democracy, the people are the ultimate decision-makers. Elections were held in eight Graduate and Teachers constituencies, and the results are now coming in, with the NDA leading, he said. Prem Kumar said the NDA was confident of winning five seats, while acknowledging the possibility of losing three. We are confident of winning five seats, while there is a possibility of losing three seats. Our party and the NDA will review the reasons for these possible defeats so that we can perform better in future elections, he said. Claiming that the political atmosphere across the country favoured the NDA, he added that Prime Minister Narendra Modis efforts had played an important role. Minister Santosh Suman said, Last time, we had three seats, while this time we are winning four to five seats. One candidate supported by us, who was contesting as a rebel candidate, has also won from one seat. Overall, if we make a comparative assessment, our results are better than last time. However, we had expected more, so we will identify the reasons and try to improve. JD(U) National General Secretary, Shyam Rajak, however, urged caution while commenting on the results, saying that the party was still awaiting official information on some seats. We have received information about some seats, but there is no official information about the remaining seats. Until the official reports are received, commenting on these matters serves no purpose. Let the complete official information about all eight seats come in first, and then we can comment, Rajak said. According to the results and counting trends available, results for five of the eight constituencies had been declared, while counting was continuing in the remaining three. In the Saran Teachers constituency, Independent candidate Dr Rahul Raj was declared elected. In the Patna Teachers constituency, Dr Sanjeev Kumar of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won. In the Patna Graduate constituency, JD(U) candidate Neeraj Kumar was declared the winner, while BJP candidate Narendra Singh won the Tirhut Teachers constituency. Dr Suresh Prasad Rai of Jan Suraaj was elected from the Darbhanga Teachers constituency.
Bihar Law Department Recruitment 2026
Bihar Law Department has invited applications by email for 13 vacancies, including Addl. Advocate General and Additional Standing Counsel posts. Applications can be sent till 16 November 2026.
India targets 5 million metric tonnes annual green hydrogen production capacity by 2030
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 28 (IANS) India aims to develop 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) of annual green hydrogen production capacity by 2030, an official factsheet said on Wednesday. This transition can reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels and strengthen the countrys long-term energy security. The National Green Hydrogen Mission marks an important step towards building a cleaner, more self-reliant and globally competitive energy economy. The Mission is expected to reduce cumulative fossil fuel imports by approximately Rs 1 lakh crore by 2030. Beyond energy security, the Mission seeks to create new opportunities for industrial growth, investment and employment. It is expected to mobilise over Rs 8 lakh crore in investments and generate more than 6 lakh jobs across manufacturing, infrastructure, research, and project development. The production and use of the targeted green hydrogen quantum could also help avert nearly 50 MMT of carbon dioxide emissions annually, according to the factsheet. Moreover, six States have notified dedicated green hydrogen policies, complementing the National Green Hydrogen Mission. Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and West Bengal are the States with notified dedicated policies. Four more states are finalising their dedicated green hydrogen policies. Haryana, Punjab, Bihar and Kerala are working on the draft policies. Seven States have integrated hydrogen into their existing industrial and renewable energy policy frameworks. These include Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Telangana and Chhattisgarh. Moreover, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), directly or through the National Institute of Solar Energy, has signed MoUs, Letters of Intent or Joint Declarations of Intent. The partners are Australia, Finland, France, Germany, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Uzbekistan. An MoU on renewable energy has been signed with the Netherlands. An IndiaUS Hydrogen Task Force has been formed under the Strategic Clean Energy Partnership. Green hydrogen is a focus area of the IndiaUS New and Emerging Renewable Energy Technology Action Platform (RETAP). The MNRE launched the Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme of India in April 2025. The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) accredits agencies for monitoring, verification and certification. A dedicated portal went live in June 2026 for transparent certification and compliance. Credible certification will help Indian producers compete with confidence globally. Through these efforts, the government aims to accelerate industrial decarbonisation, strengthen domestic manufacturing and position India as a global hub for green hydrogen production, use and exports. This will contribute to Indias broader vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 and its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
Bihar MLC elections: JDU's Neeraj Kumar defeats Anant Singh-backed candidate in Patna Graduates seat
JDU leader Neeraj Kumar has secured his fourth consecutive victory in the Patna Graduate constituency of the Bihar Legislative Council elections, triggering celebrations among his supporters in Mokama. Although the formal declaration of the result was still awaited at the time of the initial reports, Kumar expressed confidence in his victory and credited party workers for his success.
Over 20 Injured as Overcrowded Sleeper Bus Overturns on UPs Expressway
Bus carrying 150200 migrant workers and their families from Punjab and Haryana to Bihar overturned in Sambhal; police probe alleged overloading and negligent driving.
BPSC ASO Mains exam result 2026 announced, Santosh Kumar secures 1st rank
The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) has released the Assistant Section Officer (ASO) Mains Examination result. The exams were held on Feb 27, 2026

